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The space between the crystalline lens and the retina is filled with
a clear, gel-like substance called vitreous. In a newborn, the vitreous
has an egg-white consistency and is firmly attached to the retina.
With age, the vitreous thins and may separate from the back of the
eye. This is called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) , a very common,
usually harmless condition.
As the vitreous pulls free from the retina, it is often accompanied by
light flashes or floaters. Floaters are caused by tiny bits of vitreous
gel or cells that cast shadows on the retina. Flashes occur when the
vitreous tugs on the sensitive retina tissue.
There are other more serious causes of flashes and floaters, however. Retinal tears , retinal detachment , infection, inflammation, haemorrhage, or an injury such as a blow to the head may also cause floaters and flashes. (Have you ever seen stars after bumping your head?) Occasionally, flashes of light are caused by neurological problems such as a migraine headache . When related to a headache, the flashes of light are seen in both eyes and usually lasts 20-30 minutes before the headache starts.
Signs and Symptoms
- Black spots or “spider webs” that seem to float in the vision in a cluster or alone
- Spots that move or remain suspended in one place
- Flickering or flashing lights that are most prominent when looking at a bright background like a clear, blue sky
Symptoms that may indicate a more serious problem
- Sudden decrease of vision along with flashes and floaters
- Veil or curtain that obstructs part or all of the vision
- Sudden increase in the number of floaters
